When we work together to decide how local land should be used, we can meet growing housing, energy and other development needs while also preserving open space for the benefit of people, wildlife and the environment.

Inside San Jose Spotlight's PolitiBeat 2026's Conversation on Santa Clara Valley's Open Spaces

On Saturday, August 8, the 32-acre Malech Fire prompted a temporary closure of Máyyan 'Ooyákma - Coyote Ridge Open Space Preserve.

For a decade and a half, Andrea Mackenzie has been the driving force behind the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority's success. Now, she's announced her plans to step down at the end of 2026, and we wanted to take a moment to celebrate her and the agency’s accomplishments under her guidance.

The Open Space Authority's fiscally responsible 2026-2027 Annual Budget and Work Plan took effect July 1, coming in $45,000 under last year's budget. Take a look at some of our upcoming fiscal year projects that improve the habitat of native species, increase our ability to support local agriculture and connect more people to nature!

Ever visit an Open Space Authority preserve to get moo-ving and spot a few cows? Cattle grazing is one of the Open Space Authority’s tools for conservation. When done properly, it’s a minimally invasive and an effective conservation technique.

The Open Space Authority is building on the momentum of Measure D and highlighting six projects that are already underway and align with the goals of the recently passed measure.

Even as the last remaining ballots are being counted, we feel confident that the community has once again affirmed its commitment to protecting the natural and working lands that define the South Bay. I want to take a moment to speak to you directly about what this means, and why your role in this moment matters so much.